On October 12, twenty years ago, Matthew Shepard, a 21 year old student at the University of Wyoming, was beaten, tied to a fence and left to die. This brutal hate crime seared the nation’s collective conscience and changed the terms of debate regarding laws that failed to protect the lives and basic civil rights of LGBTQ persons. Judy and Dennis Shepherd have since dedicated their lives to ensure that others are spared the same horrific fate at the hands of those consumed by hatred.

At their request, Matthew’s remains will be interred at Washington National Cathedral on Friday, October 26th, following a public service of thanksgiving and celebration of Matthew’s life at 10:00 am. The night before this service (Thursday, October 25th), St. Thomas’ Parish invites people to gather as a public witness to remember Matthew and his witness.

We will hold an interfaith service with a message from Bishop Gene Robinson and music from the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington.

The Capital Pride Alliance, through its stewardship of diverse programming and events, specifically year-round LGBTQ+ Pride festivities centered in Washington, DC and the National Capital Region, serves to celebrate, educate, support, and inspire our multi-faceted communities in order to grow and preserve our history and protect our rights for current and future generations. Learn More